Journal Notes—November 2014

by Terry McMurry, Editor / Published November 2014  

There is an old, familiar adage that states experience is the best teacher. And I don’t believe there are too many people who would argue with this wisdom. After all, who wouldn’t want to seek advice from someone who has had personal experience with whatever the question or problem relates to? Their input could be valuable to you and may save you from making a grievous mistake.  

Many CAMs and board members today are seeking this same kind of experienced advice through networking, and the possibilities to pursue mutually beneficial relationships are continually increasing. Many of our readers have joined groups, such as FCAP, that provide opportunities to interact with other CAMs, board members, and service providers. These associations hold events, meetings, and educational opportunities designed to offer that been-there-done-that valuable advice and information. 

One such event was held in Orlando on September 26 when FCAP hosted The Show: Education and Expo at the Orlando World Center Marriott. The gathering brought together and connected many managers and board members. But more than that, they had the opportunity to meet service providers that could help them with their needs from legal to financial to restoration projects and much more. The beautiful venue and atmosphere—along with free food and live music—set the perfect casual mood for forming new, helpful relationships. And here’s the good news: if you missed The Show: Orlando, don’t worry! FCAP will host another event in January—The Show: West Palm Beach. Please visit www.fcapgroup.com for more information.

Another innovative networking idea led one community to become one of the 2014 COE Trendsetter Award winners. Bacopa Bay shares how they reached out to the neighboring communities in the Isla Del Sol area of St. Petersburg to form an association of associations. This successful experiment featured on page 32 is useful information for all community associations across the state of Florida.

There is one other way to tap into others experiences, and you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home or office to do it. The FCAP group family of services—FCAP, FLCAJ, CondoJobs, The Show, and FLCAJ Reader’s Choice Awards—provides a great way to research and learn. By simply logging on to our website www.fcapgroup.com you have access to past articles featured in the Journal, CAM opportunities listed with CondoJobs, educational material from FCAP certification courses, and much more. 

I hope you will take advantage of some or all of these great opportunities.

Editor